Punu-Lumbu reliquary head - Gabon
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€ 1
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 220 - € 250
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Punu-Lumbu reliquary head, carved wood from Gabon, the Bapunou tribe, 47 cm high, in good condition.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Origin. Gabon
Tribe name. Bapunou
Material. Wood
Dimension. 47 cm
Mode of shipment. Colissimo within 24-48h; open
decorative figure carved in the style of the art of the Punu and Lumbo peoples of Gabon.
The face: It presents an idealized aesthetic with a lighter complexion, typical of okuyi or mukudj Punu masks. The eyes are represented by half-closed slits, evoking a serene and introspective expression. The eyebrows are arched and well defined.
The hairstyle: The figure is topped with an imposing headdress in the shape of a crescent or arch, which frames the face. This headdress is punctuated by small regular perforations along its entire contour.
The structure: Unlike a classical facial mask, this piece appears to be an element of statuary or a reliquary. The face is supported by two vertical uprights that diverge toward a solid base, creating a triangular void beneath the chin.
This type of object is traditionally associated with the cult of ancestors or with ritual ceremonies where the spirits of the deceased are honored.
Origin. Gabon
Tribe name. Bapunou
Material. Wood
Dimension. 47 cm
Mode of shipment. Colissimo within 24-48h; open
decorative figure carved in the style of the art of the Punu and Lumbo peoples of Gabon.
The face: It presents an idealized aesthetic with a lighter complexion, typical of okuyi or mukudj Punu masks. The eyes are represented by half-closed slits, evoking a serene and introspective expression. The eyebrows are arched and well defined.
The hairstyle: The figure is topped with an imposing headdress in the shape of a crescent or arch, which frames the face. This headdress is punctuated by small regular perforations along its entire contour.
The structure: Unlike a classical facial mask, this piece appears to be an element of statuary or a reliquary. The face is supported by two vertical uprights that diverge toward a solid base, creating a triangular void beneath the chin.
This type of object is traditionally associated with the cult of ancestors or with ritual ceremonies where the spirits of the deceased are honored.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
Gabon
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Punu-Lumbu reliquary head
Height
47 cm
Sold by
